The Minnesota Timberwolves star is the most relentless rebounder on Team USA’s roster. He has a career average of 12 per game in the NBA, although that number dipped to just 4.9 per contest during the 2010 FIBA World Championships.

Look for coach Mike Krzyzewski to employ a lot more Love on Monday, especially considering the thin front line and severe lack of elite rebounders with size on this roster.

NBA players Nene, Varejao and Splitter will all be banging for boards down low, giving Brazil a distinct advantage in that category going into the game.

Love will be key in neutralizing that and helping Team USA win.

Key Matchup: Chris Paul vs. Marcelo Huertas

The Brazilian PG was able to control the game back in ’10 by simply executing the pick-and-roll and dishing to open shooters.

Team USA threw multiple defenders at the 29-year-old but simply could not force him into making mistakes.

CP3 will now take on that challenge and, as one of the best defensive point guards in the NBA, should give Huertas some fits.

Expect this to be a blowout if the Clips superstar can pilfer the rock from the Brazilian floor general and force him into mistakes.